Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin darkens. It may darken in small patches or affect larger areas. In most cases, there is no medical concern, and the problem is considered more of a cosmetic issue. In some cases though, there may be underlying causes of the hyperpigmentation that can cause medical problems. If hyperpigmentation is not considered a health risk but is a cosmetic worry to the patient, it can be covered with makeup to hide it.
There are certain factors that can put a person at risk for hyperpigmentation. These things can be avoided to prevent the skin condition. Some genetic factors can also cause hyperpigmentation. Some common risk factors of the disease include:
There are numerous things that can cause hyperpigmentation, including genetic and environmental factors. Finding the cause of the hyperpigmentation can help doctors come up with appropriate treatment. Sometimes, there is no obvious cause. Some common causes include:
Hyperpigmentation can be a symptom or the actual problem. The symptoms are consistent with most patients, but the areas affected can range in size and color. Some people only have tiny dark spots that appear on the skin. Others have entire areas of their bodies that become darker than the rest of their skin. These areas can grow larger over time or become darker in color.
Doctors can diagnose hyperpigmentation with a physical exam. They will look at the affected area and determine if there is a reason for the hyperpigmentation and the underlying cause. If doctors are unable to diagnoses the hyperpigmentation with a physical exam, they may instead do a biopsy or take another type of skin sample to test for cancer or other skin problems.
It is possible to treat hyperpigmentation, but it may not be possible to completely lighten the skin to the original color. Most treatments are topical creams or over-the-counter medications. The most common types of prescribed medications include:
Most people with hyperpigmentation are able to live normal lives. If treatments are unsuccessful, they may be able to cover the darker areas with makeup and blend it in to match their normal skin color. Hyperpigmentation can change over time and grow to cover larger areas or become darker.
Complications caused by hyperpigmentation are not common but can occur. The complications may also be caused by treatments used for hyperpigmentation. Certain medications can lighten the skin too much. Some people also have allergic reactions to the prescribed medications. Patients who experience any complications should seek medical attention.
This post was last modified on July 26, 2023 4:11 pm
Spider veins are a common cosmetic concern for many people, causing small, visible veins to appear just beneath the surface… Read More
Digital Signage for Hospitals: Streamlining Communication in Hospitals SEO description: The use of digital signage for hospitals transforms the way… Read More
Oxygen is the most critical element for human survival, and in scenarios where oxygen levels are compromised, having access to… Read More
In the world of competitive sports and bodybuilding, serious athletes are always on the lookout for reliable, high-quality supplements to… Read More
Car accidents can change lives, causing long-term injuries that affect physical health, finances, and emotional well-being. Recognizing these effects is… Read More
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious condition that can result from various forms of negligence, such as car accidents,… Read More
It sucks to be on a tight budget. You have to pick and choose what you buy at the grocery… Read More
We’ve all laid in bed tossing and turning, not being able to sleep. But what if this is happening to… Read More
Addiction can profoundly impact every aspect of an individual’s life, from their physical health to their relationships, career, and spiritual… Read More
The mental health landscape for teenagers is increasingly concerning. Adolescence is a period fraught with changes—physically, emotionally, and socially—that can… Read More